One Reason not to Quit Photography
Too many talented photographers quit practicing photography for the wrong reasons. It bothers me. A lot. Because witnessing a photographer do something so wonderful with their creative mind and then give up on it so easily is frustrating, and it mainly happens because society is currently teaching people to care about the wrong things.
I love the digital era. It allows me to pack up my iPad, walk to my local coffee shop and share my thoughts online.
However, a lot of issues have arisen since we were all given portable internet devices that allow us to share our creative content with the world.
Because, in theory, anyone with an internet connection can be our audience, we have handed over too much power to the thoughts of others, no longer trusting our own creative instincts.
This isn’t just a photography problem, but it’s certainly an active issue within our industry.
When I Picked up a Camera
I can’t exactly recall the first time I used a camera, though I’m certain of the thoughts and feelings I would have experienced. I would have had no concept of time and felt a thrill when seeing my vision in the form of an image for the first time.
To me, it’s the process of making the image that should drive a photographer to practice the craft.
When I started, there was no Instagram and only the wealthy could invest in a personal website (website builders? What are they!?)
Sure we would share images with our nearest and dearest, and sure if they complimented them it would feel amazing, but fundamentally their opinion wasn’t important. Being able to practice photography was all that mattered.
Of course, having such modern tools at our disposal is a good thing. I’m not suggesting we revert back to days of old (although some balance is likely needed,). What I am saying is that today’s digital tools have turned a photographer’s priorities upside down.
For many, it’s now more important what others think rather than what photography—in its purest form—gives them.
They don’t get the followers, the likes, the fame, and they stop. The camera goes on the shelf, collects dust, and sometimes becomes a symbol of resentment.
They continue to remain active on social media. The only difference is the type of content they share. Perhaps they argue about politics, social issues, or sports. This is bizarre to me.
If your photography isn’t getting the love online you think it deserves, don’t put down your camera, put down social media.
The Most Important Element in Photography
Right now, due to my health, I’m unable to make photographs. Not for one second am I thinking about the social admiration I’m missing out on. Instead, I’m thinking about the lack of movement I’m having, I’m grieving over the lack of creative output my mind is enjoying.
If I had the health to walk for 15 minutes with a fully working camera I’d jump at the chance, what happens with the images is irrelevant.
For those reading this and thinking about giving up on the craft because they don’t feel the love from others, keep going. Photography will give you far more than an online audience ever can.
Online tastes move in trends, and if your work isn’t part of the current trend, it doesn’t mean it’s bad.
And, above all else, it’s not important if your photographs are good or bad, all that matters is that the craft gives you purpose and identity. Thanks for reading.
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